SIX QUESTIONS OF LIFE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

Garden City church of Christ, Garden City, Michigan

1. What kind of son or daughter shall I be? The world says, “You are only young once so enjoy it in every way you can.” This is easy for most to accept because they want freedom from restraints. However, the Bible says, “Remember now your Creator in the days of your youth...” (Ecclesiastes 12:1). Young people should be obedient and have consideration for their parents (Ephesians 6:1-3; Proverbs 10:1; 17:20, 25). Parents are not as some think—just old fogies trying to keep them from having a good time—but are mature and experienced in many of life’s problems. It is wise for young people to heed the advice of their parents (Proverbs 13:1).

2. What kind of character shall I develop? “A good name is better than precious ointment...” (Ecclesiastes 7:1). “A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, loving favor rather than silver and gold” (Proverbs 22:1). It takes no planting, watering, or cultivating to grow weeds, nor does it take effort to grow worthless character. Careful attention and diligent effort are required for noble character. Young people, strive to build a good reputation by purity and godliness and by being an example to the believers (I Timothy 4:12).

3. Whom shall I choose as my associates? “Do not be deceived: Evil company corrupts good habits” (1 Corinthians 15:33). “Evil companionships corrupt good morals” (1 Corinthians 15:33 ASV). The counterpart of this is also true: Good companionships promote good morals. Young people should avoid the crowd that drinks, dances, tells dirty stories, uses curse words, and laughs and pokes fun at people who serve God.

4. What will be my life’s occupation? Much depends on the answer of this question. In far too many instances, though, too much emphasis is placed on money. “For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?” (Matthew 16:26). Furthermore, one must be careful to choose an occupation that is honorable and legitimate. Dishonest gains and get rich quick schemes must be avoided. This may mean a smaller income; however, “Better is a little with the fear of the Lord, than great treasure with trouble” (Proverbs 15:16), and “Better is a little with righteousness than great revenues without right” (Proverbs 16:8).

5. Whom shall I marry? If there is ever a place for clear minds and true ideas, it is in marriage. God’s laws must be understood, respected, and heeded (Matthew 5:32; 19:9). Marriage is for life (Romans 7:2-3; 1 Corinthians 7:39). The best advice I can give to young people in choosing a mate is “Marry a Christian.” Marry someone who will encourage you in the way of salvation. If that boy or girl cannot be converted before marriage, they probably will never be, and problems are only multiplied when children come along.

6. What shall I do with my life in relation to God? If you have never obeyed the gospel, you should answer, “Shall I become a Christian?” Jesus said, “For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words, of him the Son of Man will be ashamed...” (Luke 9:26). If you are already a Christian, you should answer, “Shall I remain faithful?” Jesus said, “And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. But he who endures to the end shall be saved” (Matthew 24:12-13).